Occupy Augusta Demonstrator Charged with Arson at Capitol Park

An Occupy Augusta demonstrator has been charged with arson in connection with a fire Monday that destroyed a tent at the encampment in Capitol Park. The state fire marshal’s office summonsed 18-year-old Matthew Meyer of Warren.Capitol Police say he turned himself into authorities Wednesday morning. Police say Meyer had been staying at the encampment for a month and was intending to move into the vacant tent.The encampment was empty at the time, since demonstrators had been asked to leave the park until a federal judge decides if they can stay without a permit.Police say Meyer claimed he was a volunteer firefighter and admitted to starting the fire.He’s now been prohibited from all state-owned property in Augusta.Meyer is due in court in February.